Aqara has announced the global availability of two new products, one for international users, and another solely for Europe. The first is the Valve Controller T1, a retrofit solution for smart water pipeline control. First introduced at IFA 2024, the Valve Controller T1 is designed to enhance home automation by enabling intelligent control of water valves and pipes.
The Valve Controller T1 prioritises safety by offering protection against water leaks. When paired with water leak sensors, it enables real-time monitoring and automatic shutoff in case of potential flooding, helping to prevent water damage. The device can be controlled remotely or scheduled via a mobile app and also allows for manual operation.
The controller is designed for easy installation and attaches to the lever or butterfly handle of most household valves. It is compatible with DN15, DN20, and DN25 pipes (1/2″, 3/4″, and 1″) and does not require significant modifications to existing plumbing. The device is powered by four AA batteries, eliminating the need for additional wiring, and offers up to two years of battery life due to its low-power Zigbee protocol.
The Valve Controller T1 supports integration with third-party platforms such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, Home Assistant, Homey, and Samsung SmartThings. Compatibility with Matter is enabled via an Aqara Matter bridge added to your Matter platform using the Matter integration, ensuring interoperability with other smart home devices.
The Aqara Smoke Detector includes an 85-decibel siren and a red LED indicator that activates upon detecting smoke. It also triggers sirens on other Aqara hubs and grouped smoke detectors, ensuring alerts are heard throughout the home.
Users receive real-time notifications via their smartphones, allowing them to act quickly even when away. When paired with Aqara indoor cameras, users can verify alarms remotely, reducing false alarm risks. The device supports monitoring multiple properties or locations, making it suitable for users with secondary residences or family members living in separate homes.
False alarms can be silenced through the Aqara Home app, a connected Wireless Mini Switch, or a preset gesture to the Camera Hub G3. Full disarmament requires pressing the device’s reset button.
As with the Valve Controller T1, the Smoke Detector integrates with major platforms, including Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home. It supports Matter-over-Bridge for enhanced compatibility with devices from other brands. For instance, upon detecting smoke, smart lights can flash red to alert residents, or the HVAC system can shut down to prevent smoke circulation.
The device uses the Zigbee protocol, offering up to 10 years of battery life. It features a compact design that blends with home interiors and ensures a rapid response in emergencies. Low-battery alerts and self-testing via the Aqara Home app help maintain functionality.
The Aqara Smoke Detector is available through Aqara’s Amazon stores in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, as well as from selected retailers in Europe.
